He is ranked second among most number of medals earned by a Deaflympic athlete in history behind Terence Parkin's haul of 33.

Gershwind showed interest in baseball and tennis and decided to target them as professional sports.

He made his debut at the Deaflympics in 1981, and was largely successful in the Games, finishing with 7 medals (including 5 golds).

Gershwind continued as a successful athlete in the Deaflympics winning a total of 13 gold, 8 silver and 9 bronze medals.

He has assisted, co-ordinated, and overseen every major international swimming Championship, including the Deaflympics.